Authorities should consider “all legal and political options” to help St Giles Centre workers left fearing for their jobs, a trade union group has said.
On Wednesday, we revealed that the Elgin shopping centre is set to close in just 10 days – with the owner blaming the situation on “severe financial challenges”.
The St Giles Centre has seen several closures over the past five years, including Accessorize…Picture: Daniel Forsyth
Business have been told to vacate their units and remove all stock by January 20, it is understood.
In November, it was revealed that Moray Council had agreed to pursue £750,000 in unpaid business rates owed by St Giles Shopping Centre Holdings Ltd – owned by Aviemore businessman David John Cameron through firm Upland Developments.
Amid concerns that the closure may cause firms to leave Elgin, the Moray Trades Union Council (MTUC) has urged Moray Council and other public bodies to “intervene” to protect the jobs of current centre staff.
Secretary David Blair said the group, made up of local trade unionists, was “deeply concerned” about the potential impact.
“We urge all affected workers to speak with your trade union rep, to ensure your employment rights are upheld at this difficult time,” he said.
“We also call for Moray Council and all relevant agencies to intervene for the good of workers and our wider community.
“Alternative premises and jobs must be offered to all businesses and workers.
“Solutions must be found for public toilets in Elgin town centre, and the needs of bus passengers must also be taken into account.
“We call for all legal and political options to be explored in supporting the workers of Elgin town centre.”
The Usdaw union has confirmed it is currently in talks with Argos, about what the St Giles Centre’s looming closure may mean its members who work there.
Argos, a spokesperson added, is “waiting to hear back from the landlord”.
“Usdaw represents members who work in the Argos store,” the spokesperson said.
“As soon as we were made aware, we contacted the company for more detail who in turn advised us that they are waiting to hear back from the landlord.
“We are in regular contact with the company and as soon as they have an update they will let us know and ensure we can support our members.”
Chairman of the Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee Marc Macrae (Fochabers Lhanbryde, Conservative) said the council had made “efforts over considerable time to try and assist the centre through difficult times”.
He added: “Thoughts are with the many staff of the centre and the retailers who have had this news sprung upon them so soon after the festive holidays.
“I can assure you that both councillors and council officers will work with all relevant organisations to assist wherever possible.”